Expanding into new countries is exciting, but it also comes with complex challenges in payroll, compliance, and HR management. Every country has its own employment laws, tax regulations, and benefit requirements, which can overwhelm even well-prepared companies. This is where Employer of Record (EOR) companies step in to simplify global hiring.
An EOR acts as the legal employer for your international team, handling contracts, payroll, and compliance on your behalf. Instead of setting up costly foreign entities, businesses can hire talent in days with the help of an EOR provider. This makes global expansion faster, safer, and far more cost-efficient.
The demand for EOR services has grown rapidly as remote work and global hiring become the new standard. From startups looking to tap into international talent to large enterprises seeking efficient compliance management, EOR companies provide solutions that save time and reduce risks.
In this article, we’ll highlight the best EOR companies that help businesses scale internationally without the headaches of traditional HR administration. At the top of the list is Stealth Agents, a Forbes-recognized outsourcing leader known for providing scalable, secure, and compliance-driven solutions for global teams.
What Is an Employer of Record (EOR)?
An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party service provider that legally employs workers on behalf of a company. This means the EOR takes care of payroll, benefits, taxes, and compliance with local labor laws, while the client company manages the day-to-day work responsibilities. It’s a model that allows businesses to expand into new countries without the need to set up a legal entity.
The EOR acts as the official employer in the eyes of the law, ensuring that workers are properly classified, compensated, and protected under local employment regulations. This reduces risks for companies unfamiliar with international compliance requirements.
It’s important to note the difference between an EOR and a PEO (Professional Employer Organization). While a PEO typically works with companies that already have legal entities in place, an EOR removes that requirement by becoming the legal employer itself. For businesses looking to hire quickly across borders, the EOR model is often the most efficient and cost-effective option.
Why Businesses Use EOR Companies
✔ Simplifies Global Expansion
Establishing a legal entity in a foreign country often requires months of paperwork, costly legal fees, and long-term commitments. For businesses testing new markets or hiring just a few employees abroad, this isn’t always practical. EOR companies remove that barrier by allowing companies to onboard international talent quickly, sometimes in just days.
✔ Ensures Compliance with Local Labor Laws
Employment regulations differ drastically between countries, covering everything from overtime rules to mandatory benefits. A misstep can lead to fines, penalties, or even a damaged reputation. EOR providers ensure that every hire is legally compliant, reducing risks and giving companies confidence when entering new markets.
✔ Manages Payroll, Taxes, and Benefits
Running payroll for international teams is complex, especially with different tax systems, currencies, and benefit structures. An EOR centralizes this process, ensuring salaries, taxes, and contributions are handled accurately and on time. This keeps employees satisfied while protecting businesses from payroll-related compliance issues.
✔ Reduces HR Overhead and Risks
Global hiring comes with added HR responsibilities like drafting compliant contracts, managing documentation, and filing reports with local authorities. EORs take on these tasks, allowing internal HR teams to focus on culture, growth, and employee engagement instead. This shift minimizes administrative strain while lowering the chances of legal missteps.
Key Benefits of Partnering with an EOR Provider
- Faster Hiring in New Countries – Setting up a legal entity abroad can take months of paperwork and government approvals. With an EOR, businesses can begin hiring within days, giving them a competitive advantage in seizing opportunities quickly. This agility is especially crucial for fast-growing companies and startups.
- Lower Risk of Compliance Violations – Every country has its own labor laws, and non-compliance can lead to penalties, lawsuits, or reputational damage. An EOR acts as the legal employer, ensuring all contracts, payroll, and benefits follow local regulations. This greatly reduces risk while keeping operations smooth.
- Cost Savings Compared to Building Entities – Establishing a foreign subsidiary involves heavy costs like legal fees, taxes, and office requirements. Partnering with an EOR eliminates these expenses while still giving businesses a compliant hiring structure. This makes international expansion far more affordable and scalable.
- Access to Global Talent Without Borders – With an EOR, companies can tap into skilled professionals worldwide without worrying about legal red tape. This opens the door to hiring top talent wherever it’s available, rather than being limited by geography. It levels the playing field for smaller businesses competing globally.
- Focus on Growth While Admin Is Handled – Managing payroll, contracts, and compliance across countries can drain internal resources. An EOR takes over these administrative tasks, allowing leadership and HR teams to focus on strategy and growth. This balance empowers businesses to expand without operational bottlenecks.
Top 10 Best EOR Companies
1. Stealth Agents
Stealth Agents is more than just an outsourcing partner—it also delivers full Employer of Record (EOR) services to help businesses hire globally with ease. From payroll and compliance to HR administration, Stealth Agents ensures that international employees are legally employed and fully supported. Clients benefit from dedicated account managers, access to the top 1% of HR and IT talent, and secure systems designed for compliance. Recognized by Forbes in 2025 as a top outsourcing partner, Stealth Agents combines global reach with personalized service. This makes it an ideal EOR choice for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises seeking scalable solutions.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.8
-
🌐 Website: stealthagents.com
2. Deel
Deel is one of the most popular EOR platforms, known for its user-friendly software and ability to hire in over 100 countries. The company handles payroll, compliance, and contracts, allowing businesses to expand their teams quickly. Deel integrates easily with existing HR and finance tools, streamlining operations for growing companies. It’s widely used by startups and tech firms looking for fast global hiring solutions. Deel continues to grow as a trusted leader in the EOR space.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.7
-
🌐 Website: deel.com
3. Remote
Remote provides end-to-end EOR services, including global payroll, compliance, and employee benefits management. The company focuses on making international hiring seamless with its easy-to-use digital platform. Remote also emphasizes data security and compliance, making it a safe choice for businesses in regulated industries. Its transparent pricing model appeals to startups and mid-sized businesses. With coverage in more than 70 countries, Remote is a strong competitor in the EOR market.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6
-
🌐 Website: remote.com
4. Papaya Global
Papaya Global offers a cloud-based EOR solution that centralizes payroll, HR, and compliance management across multiple countries. Its platform uses AI-driven technology to ensure accuracy and efficiency in global workforce management. Businesses choose Papaya for its strong analytics features and ability to integrate with HR systems. The company supports international hiring in more than 160 countries, making it a go-to partner for enterprises. Papaya’s scalability and advanced tech approach make it a top choice for global businesses.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.5
-
🌐 Website: papayaglobal.com
5. Oyster HR
Oyster HR focuses on simplifying global hiring by offering EOR services that allow businesses to hire remote employees legally worldwide. It provides payroll, compliance, and employee benefits while offering resources to help companies understand labor laws in each country. Oyster is especially popular with remote-first startups and companies embracing distributed teams. Its easy-to-navigate platform and strong customer support make it stand out in the EOR space. With coverage in 180+ countries, Oyster has quickly become a trusted provider.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6
-
🌐 Website: oysterhr.com
6. Safeguard Global
Safeguard Global is a well-established EOR provider offering workforce management solutions in over 165 countries. The company focuses on helping businesses stay compliant while scaling internationally with ease. Its platform manages payroll, benefits, and local tax regulations, reducing the complexity of global hiring. Safeguard Global is known for its flexibility, working with both small businesses and large enterprises. Its long-standing reputation makes it a reliable option for companies expanding across multiple regions.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.4
-
🌐 Website: safeguardglobal.com
7. Velocity Global
Velocity Global specializes in EOR services that allow businesses to hire talent quickly without setting up local entities. The company offers global payroll, compliance, and benefits administration in more than 185 countries. It is recognized for its strong customer support and ability to adapt solutions for fast-growing companies. Velocity Global’s digital platform helps businesses simplify global expansion while minimizing legal risks. Its reliability and reach make it a leader in the EOR industry.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.5
-
🌐 Website: velocityglobal.com
8. Rippling
Rippling combines HR, IT, and finance solutions with its global EOR services, making it a versatile option for businesses. It allows companies to onboard employees internationally, manage payroll, and handle compliance all from one unified platform. Rippling is particularly attractive to companies that want to integrate HR processes with IT functions such as device management. Its automation features save time while ensuring compliance in multiple countries. Rippling’s all-in-one approach makes it stand out from many traditional EOR providers.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.7
-
🌐 Website: rippling.com
9. Globalization Partners (G-P)
Globalization Partners, now branded as G-P, is one of the most recognized names in the EOR space. It provides businesses with the ability to hire employees in more than 180 countries while staying fully compliant. G-P offers a robust technology platform that simplifies international payroll, benefits, and tax management. Its global presence makes it a preferred choice for large enterprises looking to expand rapidly. G-P’s reputation as a pioneer in the EOR industry adds to its credibility.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.6
-
🌐 Website: globalization-partners.com
10. Omnipresent
Omnipresent is a modern EOR company focused on helping remote-first businesses hire globally. It provides payroll, benefits, and compliance solutions, ensuring employees are supported no matter where they are located. The company emphasizes employee experience, offering tailored benefits packages for global staff. Omnipresent is particularly popular with startups and SMEs building distributed teams. With coverage in 160+ countries, it’s a strong player in the growing EOR industry.
-
⭐ Google Rating: 4.5
-
🌐 Website: omnipresent.com
How Stealth Agents Stands Out as an EOR Company
- Dedicated Account Managers for Every Client – Stealth Agents assigns a dedicated account manager to oversee payroll, compliance, and HR processes for each client. This ensures consistent communication, faster problem-solving, and a personalized approach that many larger providers lack.
- Top 1% of HR, Payroll, and Compliance Experts – Unlike traditional firms that rely on generalists, Stealth Agents recruits from the top 1% of global talent. This gives businesses access to seasoned professionals with expertise in employment law, benefits management, and international payroll systems.
- Scalable Support from Single Hires to Enterprise Teams – Whether a company needs one international employee or a full global workforce, Stealth Agents provides flexible solutions that scale effortlessly. This adaptability makes it suitable for startups, SMEs, and large enterprises alike.
- Secure Global Systems with Compliance-First Operations – Stealth Agents uses encrypted cloud platforms and strict compliance protocols to protect sensitive data. Industries with heavy regulations, such as healthcare and finance, trust Stealth Agents for its rigorous focus on data security and legal compliance.
- Forbes 2025 Recognition for Outsourcing Excellence – Stealth Agents has been recognized by Forbes as one of the top outsourcing providers globally. This recognition validates the company’s reliability, innovation, and ability to deliver consistent results in EOR and other outsourcing services.
Conclusion
Hiring internationally doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right Employer of Record (EOR) partner, businesses can expand into new countries while staying compliant, reducing risks, and saving valuable time. The best EOR companies handle payroll, contracts, and legal responsibilities so leaders can focus on growth instead of administrative hurdles.
The Top 10 Best EOR Companies highlighted in this article showcase the variety of trusted providers available today. From global giants like Deel and Remote to innovative platforms like Rippling and Omnipresent, each company brings its own strengths to the table. Yet for businesses seeking both flexibility and personalized service, Stealth Agents stands out as the smarter choice.
With Forbes 2025 recognition, dedicated account managers, and access to the top 1% of HR and IT professionals, Stealth Agents delivers scalable solutions for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need to hire one employee overseas or build a distributed global team, we provide the compliance, security, and efficiency to make it simple.
Book a free consultation with Stealth Agents today and discover how our EOR solutions can help you expand globally with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do EOR companies typically charge for their services in 2025?
The cost of EOR services can vary significantly based on the country, the specific services required, and the pricing model of the provider. Some EOR companies charge a percentage of the employee’s salary, while others have a flat monthly fee per employee. Opting for premium packages with additional support features, such as enhanced compliance and personalized assistance, will typically increase the overall cost.
Which countries are most challenging for EOR companies to operate in?
Countries like Germany, France, and Brazil are the hardest for EOR companies because of strict labor laws, mandatory employee councils, and strong worker protections. Emerging markets like India and some African countries can also be tricky due to changing rules and regulations.
What industries benefit most from using EOR companies for global hiring?
Industries like technology, consulting, and financial services benefit the most because they need global talent and must follow strict rules. E-commerce businesses expanding to new countries and healthcare companies also rely on EOR services to handle complex regulations and hire skilled workers worldwide.
How long does the EOR onboarding process take for new employees?
Most EOR companies can onboard new employees in 1-5 business days once all paperwork is ready. If visas or extra steps are needed, it may take 2-3 weeks. Some fast providers, like Stealth Agents, can complete standard onboarding in just 24-48 hours.
What happens if an EOR company makes compliance mistakes with your employees?
Good EOR companies have insurance to cover compliance mistakes and usually protect their clients from penalties. However, the level of protection varies, so it’s important to check their insurance and indemnification policies before signing a contract.
Can EOR companies handle contractor-to-employee conversions globally?
Yes, most EOR companies can help turn contractors into full-time employees to follow local labor laws. This is especially important in countries like the UK and Netherlands, which are strict about contractor misclassification. The process usually takes 1-2 weeks, depending on the country.
Which EOR companies offer the best benefits packages for international employees?
Top EOR companies provide benefits like health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off that meet or exceed local laws. Some also offer extras like mental health support, learning allowances, and flexible work options. Costs depend on the country and the provider.
What red flags should you watch for when evaluating EOR companies?
Watch out for companies without insurance, unclear pricing, or no legal experts in the countries you need. Avoid providers with bad client reviews, high employee turnover, or hidden subcontractors. Always check if they are registered in the countries where you plan to hire.
How do EOR companies handle employee terminations across different countries?
EOR companies follow local labor laws for terminations, which can vary a lot by country. Some places require long notice periods, severance pay, or specific paperwork. Good EOR providers handle all legal steps, protect you from wrongful dismissal claims, and ensure final payments are correct.
What technology integrations do leading EOR companies offer in 2025?
Top EOR companies connect with HR tools like BambooHR, Workday, and ADP, as well as payroll systems like Gusto and QuickBooks. Many offer APIs for custom setups, Slack or Teams plugins for communication, and single sign-on (SSO) for easy access. Some also integrate with time tracking, expense management, and performance review tools.
